L. L. Bean Continental Rucksack Review - Perfect Bushcraft Backpack

[@Jan_Strzelecki]

This backpack is about to become very popular again 🙂🙂

[@adamb.6791]

Sadly, it hasn’t. We’re wayyy late to this vid, but this pack almost is nonexistent on here. It’s a great “get home “ gray man durable pack. The back zips where you can enjoy your 2A liberties without someone looking and seeing it. My Mystery Ranch looks so tactical and the back hydration pocket doesn’t conceal shit from looking in the pack.

[@Jan_Strzelecki]

@adamb.6791 No, I mean that this is the type of backpack used by the main character in the "Stalker 2" videogame, which is kinda getting popular now 🙂

[@adamb.6791]

@ awesome!!! I had no idea. I just appreciate the old school adventurer ethos of it. Like it morphs into whatever the situation calls for. I shall refer to it as my “toxic masculinity bag.” Like something Indiana Jones would rock. I’m happy being me, but I like the style of it.

[@akeeperofoddknowledge4956]

I much prefer the old school styling! Made of modern materials - winner! Thanks for sharing!

[@nicholasleonardo4788]

Just some food for thought. I saw a bushcrafter who had a side pocket on his backpack where the canteen and cup was a tight fit. He took a bandana. Opened it up and placed the canteen with cup in the middle and then pushed it down the pocket. When he opened the pocket he just lifted on the bandana which surrounded the entire canteen and it slipped out easily. Plus you get use if a bandana as well. Just a trick I learned watching videos. Nice pack.

[@guylara4498]

Great review. I’m looking at the new LL Bean Continental Weekender. Wondering if you’ve had a chance to look at it? Possibly a future review as it’s an updated version of the continental rucksack.

[@jasonwolf7767]

Good review! Thorough overview of the features. Just wanted to say to say thank you for taking the time to make and post this video. I appreciate the information and clear explanations of the bag.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Jason Wolf glad you found it helpful!

[@MississipVol]

Good review! I have this pack and I am really surprised that it doesn't get reviewed more as a great option as a bushcraft style backpack, especially considering that it's half the price of most bushcraft style packs made very similarly. It's perfect for a long day in the woods that can definitely serve as a good overnighter or even a weekender if someone was traveling minimally. I love mine!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+MississipVol glad you dig it

[@RandomButtonPusher]

This new 2017 version (just added to the website in recent days) addresses a couple complaints some users had with the 2016 iteration, which I have, and simplifies certain features -- and manages to come in for $10.99 cheaper. The biggest complaint about the previous model was the cinch cord for the main compartment, which is somewhat difficult to cinch down most of the way (not unusual with rucks). I see they have added a lighter weight nylon channel for the cord to let it slide easier. Another issue some had was with the side pockets, which had spindrift collars under the flaps (which can help hold in a taller bottle) -- the flaps having the back edge of the fold-over sewn to the body of the pack which makes it a bit harder to fold them up and out of the way. The 2017 model has what Bean is calling "hinged" flaps and no spindrift cinch, the pockets wide open at the top and the flap simply sewn along the horizontal. The front pocket on the new version is closed with two buckles, which Bean says is for fast access. This replaces a full zipper with rain flap on my version. Also, Bean says they have narrowed the padded back panel to "allow the bag to conform easier to contents" than the fuller panel did. Probably helps with the cinch cord, too. It looks more like the back panel on my 2015 Bean klettersack. So it will be interesting to see how the pack works for you. Two colors of the 2016 version are still available in the "closeout sale" section at Bean -- russet and woodland camo -- both with gray trim. The interesting thing is that the current sale price for the discontinued version is 99 cents more than the list price for the new 2017 version. Clearly, it cost more to make the 2016 model. Also, there is a youth model of the 2016 pack that is also in the sale section for as little as $49.99.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Excellent info!

[@JPSkinner1945]

Thanks for sharing your experience and your thoughts of the rucksack, really appreciated. I wanted to get for semi-tactical looking for Amtrak train travel and occasional air travel for one pack travel.

[@MrPawPaw]

Ok, I just received my pack. For those still concidering, get it. The material is very rugged. The side pocket easily hold my 40 oz canteen, cup and stove nested. Unless you need molle webbing this bag is perfect. Im 5' 9" at 220lb. Fits great with plenty of strap left if your bigger. Thanks for the review. It helped my decide this is exactly what I been looking for.

[@ThePirateJackal]

Everyone interested in this pack should know that it is now MUCH smaller. The 2019 version will no longer hold a water bottle in the side pockets. The whole pack is shorter and narrower. It does have a laptop sleeve and electronics pocket, because outdoors. And the price is still $89.

[@Wilkins325]

2021 update: just checked their site, seems to be the same bag in this video

[@justindonie]

SIZE COMMENT: a) 2024 - the size mentioned on the website matches the 2000 cu in he mentions in this video from 7 years ago: Capacity: 2,014 cu. in., 33 L. There is a larger Weekender version (separate item) that is Volume: 2,232 cu. in., 37 liters. Perhaps that's what you're referring to. b) WATER BOTTLE POCKETS: I also wanted to note that the side pockets easily take my 32 oz water bottle with room to spare around the body and enough top clearance to easily click-close the strap.

[@ThePirateJackal]

@justindonie As of four years ago, the bag I purchased, that I put hands on, that I measured, that was billed as the same bag as ever, was significantly smaller.

[@deepsouthNZ]

wow, that pack is beautiful

[@JayRowMay.]

Looks great just from the thumbnail!!!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

It rides great. thanks

[@kokadjooutdoors620]

You can get the older ones online don’t have bottom straps and lower front pocket zippers but I ordered one and be here tomorrow ships from Italy

[@AC9DJ]

Just ordered one. Thanks for sharing, this is the pack I've been looking for, should fit my needs perfectly!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Hope you like it as much as I like mine.

[@CaptainAiryca]

oh man, I didn't NEED another pack on my wishlist, but I gotta add this one! So cool!! Thank you for the video :)

[@jimmyrussell5315]

I’ve been waiting for a bag just like this! Thanks!

[@captbizzarro3141]

Great review. I just purchased one based on your video. If you compare the features to other big name brands (Duluth, Frost River etc) which are +$300, you can't beat the $79 price tag and the L.L. Bean guarantee. I believe the reason people purchase the big name brands is because of the Lifetime guarantee associated with them. Definitely worth the try at $79.

[@AZCampcraft]

nicely done review, helped with my decision to purchase. my continental rucksack is supposed to ship today after being back ordered for a bit, looking forward to it showing up.

[@woodchuck70]

Great review! I definitely will be buying this pack now!

[@preppersdivision4243]

it is indeed a great sack! thank you

[@wiseguy9411]

Just got mine today!!!

[@PeterNordBushcraft]

LL Bean is the best I just bought one of those and have not used it yet. It is loaded and ready to go!

[@prepking303]

Nice video sir. Just ordered mine should be coming in the mail very soon.

[@myadventuresincreation4741]

I picked up one of their older models and would agree with everything you said about the pack. I love it too. Mine has leather for the bottom portion and sadly no straps. It also has a clear plastic sheet on the back pouch for map, cell phone etc. It is very similar to Joe Robinets Wildland Scout pack for a fraction of the cost. It's surprising how it can carry heavy loads for such a light pack. I carry my 4 foot ridgerest mat on top rolled up with a trekker chair that allows me to relax in comfort when I'm enjoying the outdoors.

[@davidafultz]

I’ve been looking at this pack as a get home bag to keep in my vehicle. I’m looking at the blue and orange version which makes it scream “book bag” and double as an urban friendly option. Did not realize the pockets on the side were open behind for additional hanging carry. Good review! Thanks

[@Skills2survive]

I like that pack. Very cool. Thanks for sharing.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Skills2Survive thanks buddy

[@tomfaranda]

great review. I have an older version; expect to leave it to my children.

[@supremegalacticcommander2783]

Great video and really nice pack, thank you.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Peter Morley thank you!

[@HBC258]

Nice rucksack.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Thanks Hershel

[@JohnTierneyNY]

Excellent review - thanks!

[@2ndchancegeorge]

another great review. late to party again I am. question. what bag are you using for your food. I saw the possibles review but wondered about your food pouch. need a good one preferably waterproof. Kayak alot to camp sites. Many thanks. and always look forward to your reviews.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+2nd Chance George I have changed food bags many times. I think the best option is just a small dry sack like sea to summit sells.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Good review on this great LL Bean product. I was going to buy this pack but for some strange reason I opted to pick up another military pack, the Norwegian Military Rucksack or Telemark Pack; made famous by the Kirk Douglas movie. Hopefully I won't regret the decision. If it becomes a mistake then I will certainly pick this one up. I have a small LL Bean day pack and it is awesome for those short hikes in the mountains with less weight.

[@gulfrelay2249]

Alexander Weaver when you wear it,does it make you look like Kirk?

[@scottsmith6571]

Is that a titanium canteen ?

[@Denman500.]

Thanks for the review,I just got one.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Capt'n .Woodsrat its a great pack

[@Denman500.]

See you at BushcraftUSA.

[@denofearthundertheeverlast5138]

Currently the "Color Block" version 33L (Orange / Green) is $99.99, while the Forest Sage and carbon 33L are $129, and the 37L being $149

[@Prepared_Suburbanite]

Super review, thanks!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Prepared Suburbanite thanks for watching

[@kc329191]

I have one, it's a cool pack, it's well worth it!

[@67wing]

Love it! Great review

[@MrJbarreda]

I should get mine tomorrow

[@gekandisndn]

Is it water resistant? I am looking for a nice hiking backpack that's also water resistant with a good price too, any thoughts?

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Resistant yes not waterproof. Also they changed the side pockets size. Smaller

[@scottsmith6571]

Great reviwe

[@santiagomindel4107]

Hello, do you know what the L.L Bean company calls the color of your continental model backpack? , Thank you so much.

[@jeffchapman719]

Great review! I am looking for a bushcraft bag right in this size area, 30 liters or so. I think you have sold me!

[@ACountryWayOfLife]

That is a nice looking pack brother. I really like it.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Thanks for watching!

[@CasonovaCorkClub]

I got a LL Bean Continental Rucksack at a garage sale for $5.

[@TopoftheLineTraining]

Great Review thanks!!!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Thanks for watching!

[@jterrellcreative]

Great review. Had my eye on that one. How did it do in terms of moisture? Saw you had some snow out there....

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

It was fine. I did spray mine with some camp dry to day before for extra protections

[@waterman308]

Can you tell me what jacket you are wearing? Nice review of the Ruck.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Patagonia MARS soft shell

[@scottsmith6571]

Love mine carry 2 nalgine bottles a cold steel shovel an granfors axe

[@Indianprepper2478]

Home Run Sir , Please make full review on it with all Item I double like it , This Old school to New School

[@themecue9732]

Does the waist strap fit you? We are about the same size. It seems to be hit miss with me and pack waist straps.

[@paulglucina1184]

Do you still use this pack? Or have you since found a better bushcraft pack?

[@Brendan_Clancy]

Recently subbed! Great videos. Did you ever end up doing an over nighter out of the bag?

[@scottsmith6571]

I'm ordering tonight

[@ArkansasPublicHunts]

I just bought a waxed cotton version!

[@Possumsmith-l8d]

Could it fit a single person tent and sleeping bag and still have room?

[@ozinga614]

Have you used it in the rain if so how well did it keep your stuff dry?

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Tony Wise Tony I have not. I would bag everything on the main pack if I knew rain was coming. These packs are resistant not waterproof for sure.

[@pinkmistar15]

could you attach eblerstock multpack to the straps? I see the webbing on the should straps but it is hard to see where the stitching divides the webbing. if it is divided high enough( around the collar bone area) it should work.

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

I think you could

[@37south47]

Good review bro!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Thank you!

[@backpackerofearth330]

Can I fit a bedroll with this backpack?

[@TFWS6]

Are you still using this ruck? How is it holding up?

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Yes still using it and it’s in great shape

[@TFWS6]

The Prepared Wanderer Thank you!

[@alexitogr]

2020... I just returned my LL Bean Continental Rucksack... This is a book bag now not the legendary outdoor backpack anymore. All pockets now are designed to hold pencils, computer and pretty much nothing you need for the adventure. Plus it went from $79 to $89 and now $99

[@BlackCountryWoodsman]

Been considering purchasing this pack for a while now....Thank you for a great review Subbed you 👍 Atvb Mike

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Thank you!

[@BlackCountryWoodsman]

The Prepared Wanderer very welcome

[@scottsmith6571]

Good 2 know I have many nalgine bottles,an 3 of their canteens ... I want heavy cover titanium canteen kit

[@mbecker163]

Can anyone confirm if the Pathfinder canteen system fits the side pouch?

[@johndowding4245]

It definitely does. It's a little tight, but it fits no problem.

[@edwinalgarin1715]

It’s solid out check it at Ll bean

[@husseinshahine7185]

is it khaki and brown or green?

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+Hussein Shahine khaki

[@firebeard2412]

This+haversack+belt pouch and I was able to camp out for 4 nights without any worry

[@outdoor_lifestyle_0149]

what's your Instagram? I couldn't find it

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

+outdoor _ lifestyle01 survival\bushcraft prepared_wanderer

[@outdoor_lifestyle_0149]

The Prepared Wanderer ok, thank you!

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Got it!

[@gmonk99]

What kind of jacket are you wearing?

[@ThePreparedWanderer]

Patagonia soft shell. They made them for the military.

[@netraJunkiriTheFirefly]

Wish they ship to Hong Kong

[@nicolasb5613]

The new design has a lot smaller side pockets, would not fit 32 oz bottle.

[@scottsmith6571]

I use fROnt pouch foR fire starter

[@scottsmith6571]

I have land on river so it will be a day night sack I'll only be 25 min from home

[@MrJbarreda]

I don’t need another backpack either...., 😂

[@scottsmith6571]

It's a lot larger than it lookks

[@JonMorah357]

Would you wanna sell it to me?

[@waynewang8904]

this is a nice but they now only make ugly ones, so sad.

[@santiagomindel4107]

Hello, do you know what the L.L Bean company calls the color of your continental model backpack? , Thank you so much.